Trending News Today: HMPV Cases on the Rise in China and India
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has come the trending news today. There are increasing number of people being anxious about the respiratory ailments which have become a big problem both in China and India. In health news of the day, India diagnosed HMPV in eight patients. An upsurge in cases in China has been the reason for the enhancement of the health standards, with the public health authorities being informed of the looming health crisis.
HMPV Cases Count in India
From January 7, India has reported eight cases of HMPV. The first cases came out in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. After that, one more case was found in Gujarat. The latest one is from Maharashtra, where the three new cases were reported, with the last update being from Mumbai. On the other hand, health professionals have now started to stress out the main point. HMPV is not a new virus. The Health Minister, JP Nadda went on to say that there is no need for panic. He advised citizens to take preventive measures, especially in winter. It is the time when most viral infections are prevalent.
What is HMPV?
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) generally causes infections which are characterized by mild symptoms involving the upper respiratory tract. This disease is transmitted through one-on-one contacts or by either hands, surfaces, or places that are contaminated. It shows symptoms such as fever, cough, and nasal congestion as the common cold and flu. Those who are at the most risk of getting worse are young children, the elderly, and people that have weakened immune systems.
WHO’s View on HMPV Cases
In the press release from WHO, it was noted that cases of HMPV are likely to be “largely anticipated” during this part of the year. The then WHO Chief Scientist Soumya Swaminathan criticized the fact that the control of HMPV in India was not very significant, as the virus has been known for some time.
Public Health Recommendations for HMPV
John Tregoning notes that similar preventive actions are to be taken for human metapneumovirus as are for the flu.
- Being in adequately-ventilated premises.
- Careful about coughing, put your hand in front of your mouth.
- Washing hands at regular intervals.
- If someone is infected, the priority should be given to rest, fluid intake, and reduce contact with others to avoid the recovery process.
Why Are Current HMPV Cases making trending news today?
The heightening of HMPV cases in China has created a global scare that has never been more pertinent than today. India is now the first to implement proactive measures to avoid the spread and to give first medical help to those who have been impacted.
Be in touch with thenewsbuzz for all the trending news today HMPV cases as the health authorities are still keeping an eye on the HMPV situation.
